Glucose, Plasma (24-hour average)
This test measures the average level of glucose (sugar) in your plasma over a 24-hour period, helping doctors assess how well your body manages blood sugar levels.
["Understanding your body’s natural glucose balance over time can help prevent complications from high or low blood sugar."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 55513-6
- Short code
- GH 30M p CLN SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- GH 30M p CLN SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 17
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors may order a 24-hour plasma glucose profile to evaluate how your body handles glucose, especially if you have diabetes, prediabetes, or symptoms like frequent hunger, fatigue, or unexplained weight changes. It can also help check for conditions like reactive hypoglycemia or insulin resistance.
How the Test Works
Blood is collected at specific times throughout the day (typically every 2–4 hours) to measure glucose levels in plasma. The results are averaged to provide a comprehensive picture of your glucose control.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll need to fast (not eat or drink anything except water) for 8–12 hours before the test. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results. Wear comfortable clothing and plan for multiple blood draws during the day.
What to Expect During the Test
Blood samples are drawn from a vein in your arm at scheduled intervals. You may feel a slight pinch or discomfort, but it usually lasts only a few seconds. You’ll be able to eat and drink normally after the fasting period.
Reference range
NCBI: NSE 0-17 ng/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
24-Hour Plasma Glucose Profile
Frequently asked questions
A 24-hour plasma glucose profile helps identify patterns in blood sugar that standard single-point tests might miss. For example, it can detect whether your glucose levels spike after meals or drop too low between meals, guiding treatment plans for diabetes or other metabolic conditions.
How long will I need to prepare for this test?
Will I need to take any special medications or supplements before the test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy